Lighter IIT-M wheelchair costs 1/3rd of existing models
Weighing 8.5kg, YD One was developed by engineers at the TTK Centre for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT-M in collaboration with users and clinicians. It can support up to 120kg and is designed to be easy to lift, handle, and stow in cars, autos, or public transport. It can also be used by beginners taking up sports.
The institute transferred the tech to Thryv Mobility, an IIT-M incubated startup, for commercial manufacturing.
The wheelchair is expected to retail at under 75,000, nearly one-third the cost of similar wheelchairs in international markets.
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Prof Sujatha Srinivasan, head of R2D2, said in a video message, "YD One is the seventh product from our centre. Our products offer unique advantages globally. We are proud to work with passionate startups to offer affordable choices."
Justin Jesudas, co-founder of Thyrv Mobility, said the wheelchair features a mono-tube rigid frame with an ISO-specified load capacity of 120kg.
It passed two lakh double drum test cycles and 6,666 drop tests.
The wheelchair was unveiled by Surgeon Vice Admiral Anupam Kapur, Director General Hospital Services (Armed Forces), in the presence of IIT-M Director V Kamakoti. At present, many rely on heavy, poorly fitted hospital-style wheelchairs designed for short-term indoor use, often requiring assistance.
Among the 20 early users present at the event was M Jennifer Sheeba, 38, a basketball and table tennis player. "Hospital-style wheelchairs limited my movement, and I often needed help to get around. With YD One, I can move independently; I can even climb stairs," she said.
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